If you’ve never tried Peruvian grilled chicken, you’re in for a treat! This dish is bursting with vibrant flavors that come together in a magical marinade, making each bite a savory delight. I remember the first time I had it at a little Peruvian restaurant tucked away in my neighborhood. The aroma alone had my mouth watering, and when I took that first bite, I was hooked! The combination of spices like cumin and paprika with the zesty kick from the vinegar creates a flavor profile that’s simply irresistible. It’s the perfect dish for a summer barbecue or a cozy weeknight dinner—trust me, once you try it, it’ll become a staple on your table!
Ingredients List
Gathering the right ingredients is key to bringing that amazing Peruvian flavor to life! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 4 chicken breasts (boneless and skinless) – Make sure they’re nice and fresh for the best flavor!
- 1/4 cup olive oil – This adds richness and helps the marinade stick to the chicken.
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar – It gives that zesty kick that’s essential in Peruvian cuisine!
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce – Adds a depth of flavor and a bit of umami that you’ll love.
- 1 tablespoon paprika – This gives the chicken a lovely color and a mild, sweet flavor.
- 1 tablespoon cumin – A must-have spice that brings warmth and earthiness to the dish.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced – Because garlic makes everything better, right?
- Salt and pepper to taste – Don’t forget to season well to enhance all those wonderful flavors!
With these simple yet flavorful ingredients, you’re all set to whip up an unforgettable Peruvian grilled chicken! Get ready to enjoy a dish that’s not just delicious but also super easy to prepare.
How to Prepare Instructions
Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step magic of making this Peruvian grilled chicken! It’s really straightforward, and I promise, the results are totally worth it.
Step-by-Step Marinade Preparation
First things first, we need to whip up that amazing marinade! In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, white vinegar, soy sauce, paprika, cumin, minced garlic, and a generous sprinkle of salt and pepper. Give it a good stir until everything is well blended—oh, the smell is already divine! Now, take your chicken breasts and place them in the bowl, coating them thoroughly with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the chicken to a resealable plastic bag, making sure every piece is nicely coated. This is where the magic happens! Refrigerate for at least 2 hours. For the best flavor, I highly recommend letting it marinate overnight if you can wait that long!
Grilling Process
Once the chicken has marinated, it’s time to fire up the grill! Preheat your grill to medium-high heat—this is crucial for that perfect char. When it’s nice and hot, carefully place the marinated chicken breasts on the grill. Grill them for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until they reach that beautiful golden brown color and are cooked through. You’ll know they’re done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Once off the grill, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This resting time is key, as it allows the juices to redistribute, making every bite succulent and full of flavor. Trust me, you’re in for a treat!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This Peruvian grilled chicken comes together in just about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights!
- Flavor Explosion: The marinade infuses the chicken with bold, vibrant flavors that transport your taste buds straight to Peru.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and made with wholesome ingredients, this dish is not only delicious but also a nutritious choice.
- Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with rice, salad, or your favorite sides for a complete meal that fits any occasion.
- Grill-Friendly: It’s a fantastic option for summer barbecues, giving you that smoky flavor everyone loves!
- Kid-Approved: The mild spices make it a hit with both adults and kids, so you can please the whole family.
Once you try it, you’ll see why this Peruvian grilled chicken recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite in your home!
Tips for Success
Now that you’re all set to make this delicious Peruvian grilled chicken, here are some tips that’ll help you nail it every time!
- Marinate Longer for Maximum Flavor: If you can, let the chicken marinate overnight. The longer it sits in that flavorful marinade, the more intense the taste will be. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
- Bring Chicken to Room Temperature: Before grilling, let the marinated chicken sit out for about 15-30 minutes. This helps it cook more evenly and stay juicy—nobody wants dry chicken!
- Don’t Rush the Grill: Preheating the grill is super important! If it’s not hot enough, the chicken won’t get that nice char and could end up steaming instead. Aim for medium-high heat, and keep an eye on it while it cooks!
- Flip Less, Enjoy More: Resist the urge to flip the chicken too often. Let it sear for 6-7 minutes on one side before turning it over. This way, you’ll get those beautiful grill marks and a juicy interior.
- Check Temperature: For perfectly cooked chicken, use a meat thermometer. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This ensures it’s safe to eat while still being tender and juicy!
- Rest Before Slicing: After grilling, don’t skip the resting time! Let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making each bite incredibly flavorful.
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to making the most mouthwatering Peruvian grilled chicken that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds!
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to switch up this Peruvian grilled chicken recipe and make it your own! Here are a few ideas that’ll keep things exciting:
- Herb-Infused Marinade: For a fresh twist, try adding fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley to the marinade. It brightens up the flavors and adds a lovely fragrance!
- Spicy Kick: If you love heat, toss in some chili powder or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade. It’ll give your chicken a fiery kick that’s sure to wake up your taste buds!
- Citrus Zing: Swap out the white vinegar for freshly squeezed lime or orange juice. The citrus adds a wonderful acidity that complements the spices beautifully.
- Different Proteins: Not a fan of chicken? No problem! This marinade works wonderfully with pork chops, shrimp, or even firm tofu for a plant-based option.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve your grilled chicken on a bed of quinoa or alongside a fresh avocado salad. You can also pair it with some grilled veggies for a colorful and healthy meal!
- Wrap It Up: Shred the grilled chicken and toss it in a tortilla with some fresh salsa, lettuce, and cheese for a delicious wrap or tacos that everyone will love.
With these variations, you can customize this Peruvian grilled chicken to fit any mood or occasion. It’s all about experimenting and finding what flavors you adore the most!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Got leftovers from your delicious Peruvian grilled chicken? No worries, I’ve got you covered on how to store and reheat it so that it stays just as tasty as when it was freshly grilled!
First up, let’s talk about storage. Allow the chicken to cool down to room temperature after grilling, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. This will keep it juicy and flavorful while preventing any unwanted odors from mingling in your fridge. You can store the chicken in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, feel free to freeze it! Just make sure to wrap each piece well in plastic wrap or foil and then place it in a freezer-safe bag. It’ll last for about 2 months in the freezer.
Now, when it comes to reheating, I recommend using the oven for the best results. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken on a baking sheet and cover it loosely with aluminum foil to keep it from drying out. Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until it’s warmed through. If you’re in a hurry, you can also use the microwave! Just pop a piece on a microwave-safe plate, cover it with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed. But beware—microwaving can sometimes make the chicken a bit rubbery, so try to stick with the oven if you can.
Whether you’re enjoying it as leftovers or reheating it for a quick meal, following these tips will help ensure your Peruvian grilled chicken remains succulent and packed with flavor!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to enjoying delicious food, I always like to know what I’m putting into my body. This Peruvian grilled chicken is not only mouthwatering but also packs a nutritious punch! Here’s a breakdown of the typical nutritional values per serving (1 chicken breast):
- Calories: 300
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
- Protein: 30g
These values can vary based on the specific ingredients you use, but overall, this recipe is a great source of protein while being relatively low in carbs. It’s a fantastic option for those looking for a healthy, satisfying meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor!
FAQ Section
Can I use bone-in chicken for this Peruvian grilled chicken recipe?
Absolutely! Bone-in chicken will add even more flavor, but you may need to adjust the cooking time. Just make sure it reaches that safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
What’s the best way to ensure my chicken stays juicy?
Marinating is key! The longer you marinate the chicken, the more flavorful and tender it will be. Also, remember to let it rest after grilling to keep those juices locked in!
Can I make the marinade ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the marinade a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just add the chicken when you’re ready to grill, and you’ll be all set!
What sides pair well with Peruvian grilled chicken?
This chicken goes wonderfully with a side of rice, a fresh salad, or even some grilled vegetables. You can also serve it with a zesty avocado salsa or chimichurri for an extra flavor boost!
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! As long as you use gluten-free soy sauce (like tamari), this Peruvian grilled chicken recipe is perfect for those following a gluten-free diet.
How can I adjust the spice level?
If you like it spicy, feel free to add some chili powder or hot sauce to the marinade. You can also serve it with a spicy dipping sauce on the side for an extra kick!
Can I use a grill pan instead of an outdoor grill?
Definitely! A grill pan works great on the stovetop and will give your chicken those lovely sear marks. Just make sure it’s hot enough before adding the chicken for the best results.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The best way is to use a meat thermometer. It should read 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part of the chicken. If you don’t have one, you can also cut into the chicken, and the juices should run clear!
For more delicious recipes, check out Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta or Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken!
Print
Peruvian Grilled Chicken Recipe: 5 Bold Flavors to Savor
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This is a flavorful Peruvian grilled chicken recipe marinated in spices.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, vinegar, soy sauce, paprika, cumin, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Add chicken breasts and coat well with the marinade.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Grill chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side or until cooked through.
- Remove from grill and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Notes
- For best flavor, marinate overnight.
- Serve with rice or salad.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Peruvian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: peruvian grilled chicken recipe
